American Indian Heritage Month

Worksheet Description

American Indian Heritage Month, also known as Native American Heritage Month, is observed every November in the United States. Established to honor and recognize the significant contributions, culture, tradition, and histories of Native American and Alaska Native people, this month-long celebration offers a platform to share and educate the broader public about the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories, and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. It’s also a time to highlight the challenges Native communities have faced historically and continue to encounter today.

The roots of American Indian Heritage Month trace back to the early 20th century when advocates first began pushing for a day of recognition for Native Americans. After decades of state and local celebrations accompanied by proclamations, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution in 1990 designating November as “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Since then, each annual proclamation-whether made by a president, governor, or local official-stands as a reminder of the nation’s commitment to recognizing the influence of indigenous peoples and promoting their well-being and cultural significance.